🚨 2006 Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG: Emergency Neutral
The 2006 S55 AMG (W220 chassis, final year) uses a column-mounted electronic gear selector with a brake-shift interlock system.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and apply the parking brake if functional.
- Turn the ignition to position 1 or 2 (ACC or ON) if battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the right side of the column shifter assembly, covered by a small rectangular cap.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to gently pry off the override cap.
- With your foot on the brake (if electrical system has power), insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, move the column shifter to Neutral.
- If successful, the vehicle can now roll freely; release the parking brake to move the car.
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the column shifter assembly, small rectangular cap covers the override slot
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the column shifter electronic lock mechanism may remain engaged. Attempt the override procedure first. If the override does not work with no power, the transmission must be manually placed in neutral from underneath: locate the shift lever on the driver's side of the transmission (722.6 5-speed automatic), remove the 13mm bolt securing the lever, and rotate the lever two positions forward from Park to Neutral. This requires lifting the vehicle.